Gers Ogaily (Kuwaiti Cardamom and Saffron Cake)
Experience the aromatic flavors of Kuwaiti cuisine with Gers Ogaily, a traditional sponge cake infused with cardamom, saffron, rose water, and sesame seeds. Often served during Ramadan, family gatherings, or with tea, this cake is light, fragrant, and delightfully spiced.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (230 g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- ½ tsp saffron
- 1 tbsp sugar (for saffron)
- 4 eggs
- 1½ cups (300 g) sugar
- ½ cup (113 g) melted and cooled butter
- 1 cup (250 ml) milk, room temperature
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp rose water
Instructions
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Prepare the Saffron
Grind the saffron with 1 tsp of sugar in a mortar until powdery. Add 2 tbsp of warm milk and let it steep for at least 10 minutes.
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Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add 2 tbsp of toasted sesame seeds and mix.
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Whip Eggs and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with 1½ cups sugar until light and fluffy, about 10–12 minutes.
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Combine Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, cardamom, rose water, and the saffron infusion.
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Assemble the Batter
Gently fold the dry and wet ingredients into the whipped eggs, alternating between them and starting with the dry ingredients. Mix carefully until smooth.
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Bake
Grease a cake pan (preferably a bundt pan) with butter and sprinkle the remaining 2 tbsp of sesame seeds. Pour in the batter and bake in a preheated 180°C (350°F) oven for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack. Serve at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or crushed pistachios.
Serving
Gers Ogaily pairs perfectly with tea or Arabic coffee. Its fragrant spices and gentle sweetness make it ideal for welcoming guests or enjoying a cozy family gathering. This cake not only tastes amazing but also represents the rich culinary heritage of Kuwait, highlighting the elegance of Arab desserts.
